text:
FFIC Virtual Summit 2023
Canadian FireFighter
Features Hot topics Incident reports
Hurricane havoc
On the morning of Sept. 21, fire departments across eastern Newfoundland were tasked with protecting the public from firefighters' traditional ally: water.
January 5, 2011 By Kirk Squires
Roads in several Newfoundland communities, including this one in Port Rexton, were washed out by the force of the water rising around them during Hurricane Igor in September. (Photos courtesy Fire and Emergency Services – N.L.)
In fewer than 24 hours, Hurricane Igor dumped more than 200 millimetres of rain on the eastern portion of the island and battered the region with hurricane-force winds. The hardest-hit areas ran from the Burin Peninsula on the province's southern coast to the Bonavista Peninsula in the north.
Volunteer firefighters used available resources to rescue residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Igor. Melrose, N.L. (above), near the eastern tip of the Bonavista Peninsula, was among several flooded regions.
The community of Trouty, N.L., was among the worst hit by Hurricane Igor.
The magnitude of the damage from Hurricane Igor, which challenged first responders, is evident in this image from Elliston, N.L.
More than 150 roads and bridges were washed out, close to 80 communities were left isolated and the storm claimed the life of Allan Duffet of Britannia, Random Island, when the road on which he was standing collapsed. The damage to infrastructure and personal property was widespread, with initial cost estimates in excess of $100 million.
Through the height of the storm, and in the days that followed, it was the local fire departments – the vast majority of them volunteer – that provided unwavering first response service to residents. Clarenville, approximately 180 kilometres west of St. John's, was the first community to officially declare a state of emergency. The fire department was one of the first groups to jump into action.
"We immediately started our emergency centre and made the calls to get the evacuation centres open," says Fire Chief Cory Feltham. "First and foremost was public safety. We knew the areas that were in danger so evacuating the people in those areas was the first priority."
Whether it was for downed power lines, uprooted trees or flooded basements, people called the fire department first. "There were so many calls at the same time; you had to prioritize. A tree across the road wasn't as urgent as a power line down. Public safety was the priority," says Feltham. "Make sure everyone is safe; everything else can be replaced."
The first step in responding to any emergency is getting to the victim. That was the challenge for departments in areas such as Southwest Arm and along much of the Bonavista Peninsula, where fire departments serve multiple communities.
Located in Hodge's Cove, the Southwest Arm Fire Department serves eight communities – Long Beach, Hodge's Cove, Caplin Cove, Little Hearts Ease, Butter Cove, Gooseberry Cove and Southport – stretched along the coast. And according to Southwest Arm Asst. Chief Randell Meadus, every one of those communities was cut off by washouts. In his 26 years as a firefighter, Meadus has seen every kind of emergency, but admits this is the first time he witnessed this level of widespread devastation. But, he says, the firefighters took it in stride. "It wasn't a big panic. Right out of the gate, we figured out what we had to do, get it in action, get the gear in place and start from there."
In one instance, the department responded to a call involving a woman requiring immediate medical assistance. The only way to get her to hospital was to leapfrog over and around the numerous washouts. The first step was getting her out of the community by boat. Rather than risk any discomfort to the patient, they didn't bring her to the boat, they brought the boat to her.
"We put the boat on the trailer and towed the boat and trailer into the patio, laid her into the boat on a stretcher from the deck, and launched the boat into the water to transport her across the harbour," explains Meadus.
On the other side, she was stretchered into a waiting van and driven to the next washout, brought across that chasm to another waiting van. That van brought her to another local wharf where she was loaded aboard another boat to get past the last major washout. "We got her to Long Beach where we could get her into an ambulance and transported to hospital."
At one point, the Southwest Arm department had three ambulances coming out of Clarenville into Long Beach for patients.
"We had a man with a massive heart attack, the lady we had to put on the boat and another lady who fell down and broke her collarbone and ribs. They all got to the hospital," says Meadus. Unfortunately, despite the efforts of the firefighters, the heart attack victim didn't survive. "The guys did everything humanly possible to bring him back."
When not responding to emergency calls, the Southwest Arm department, like so many others, was co-ordinating relief efforts. "We had a meeting with the owners of local shops and they made an order of what they needed," explains Meadus. "Trucks came to Long Beach and we had the boats in place to deliver goods to the stores."
The department, along with local residents who offered their assistance, did whatever was needed. Meadus says two firefighters volunteered to go by boat in very high winds to get crucial heart medication to a woman in Hodge's Cove.
Meadus has high praise for the members of his department. "The phone and radio I was connected to would have been useless if I didn't have the crews able and willing to respond."
Along with providing command services throughout the storm, local fire departments were a haven for those unable to get home. The Port Rexton Fire Department was home to 22 people – local residents and holiday travellers – stranded by washouts. Even the department's own vehicles were rendered useless.
"Neither could go more than a mile in either direction because of road washouts. The equipment carrier stood guard at the 30-foot gorge that used to be a small brook and bridge to the east of the fire hall." Instead, the department relied on personal ATVs and four-wheel drives that could navigate around the washouts. "We knew by noon we were in trouble, so the call went out," says firefighter Sarah Morgan.
According to Morgan, the Port Rexton Fire Department is a family affair. Tracy and Terry Ricketts, both members of the department, were unable to reach their home. The couple and their 10-year-old daughter Victoria spent that first day and night serving their community and the 22 people who found themselves cut off from the rest of the world. In the days that followed, firefighter David Ellis organized a traditional Newfoundland kitchen party, complete with a Screech-in, to lift spirits. The following night saw a candlelit turkey dinner for the fire department's guests.
Morgan says throughout the response efforts to Hurricane Igor, members took note of how they could be more prepared if a similar emergency were to arise again. "As a fire department, we are always trying to improve, so we are thinking of putting together a stash of blankets and pillows. Just general things you need. We had people there for six days," she says. "We were lucky though. We had access to a local store so we were able to get things like toothbrushes. And we went to the school to borrow the gym mats so people could have something to sleep on other than the concrete floor."
While taking care of those stranded by the storm, the fire department continued to answer calls and spent long hours pumping out basements, clearing away felled trees and bringing food and medications to those stranded at home. They also co-ordinated with other departments, such as Princeton, to get supplies to other stranded communities by rerouting through logging roads, side roads and paths on ATVs.
"At one point, everyone who lived in the surrounding communities, if they could get to us, could get a hot meal. We were also putting together little meals that we could bring out. That's what it is all about," says Morgan.
Many of the volunteer fire departments involved in first response to Igor are now in the process of looking at the lessons learned. Several of those departments have been impacted heavily on a financial scale. Igor put departments such as the Summerville-Princeton-Southern Bay Volunteer Fire Department in the red.
Morgan says the Port Rexton department was also impacted financially, but adds that the people who found shelter through the storm were quick to offer donations when the ordeal was over. "We had quite a bill because we provided food and gas. Right now we have $1,600 in donations and that is much needed because our PPE is getting pretty old."
For some other departments, the emergency hit closer to home. The Five Coves Fire Department on the Bonavista Peninsula was evacuated when water flooded the fire hall. Members had to rush to get apparatuses and firefighting gear and equipment to higher ground at the community centre.
Through Igor, fire departments and volunteer firefighters were the first to respond to protect their communities and local residents. While firefighters across the region affected by Igor are not looking for thanks, they do carry a strong sense of pride in being volunteer firefighters and being the first to respond when their community requires assistance. That sense of pride is apparent in the words of Sarah Morgan.
"Any volunteer fire department is the hub of the community in so many ways. It's why I joined."
Kirk Squires is a freelance writer in Clarenville, N.L.
January 2, 2023 In conversation with the CAFC's new president in 2023
December 5, 2022 B.C.'s Playbook and the evolution of training standards
November 8, 2022 What can coaching do for you?
In conversation with the CAFC's new president in 2023
Spotlight on female firefighter injuries
Trainer's Corner: The means of Mayday
NFPA Impact: An energy-storage solution
Are you sure the fire is out?
Fully Engaged: January 2011
Live burn – part 2
Firehall.com
Becoming a Firefighter
Firefighting Directory
Firehall Mall
Fire Fighting in Canada | Firehall.com @fireincanada ·
New Post: Fire destroys Montreal strip mall https://buff.ly/3JfbrBi
New Post: New Sudbury fire station vacated after potential asbestos found https://buff.ly/3XUQVK7
New Post: Seven people displaced by early morning fire in Pembroke https://buff.ly/3Huz47p
New Post: Woman, three children pulled from fire in downtown Moncton https://buff.ly/3R8JNYI
Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC) @onfirechiefs ·
OAFC President Rob Grimwood, Deputy Fire Chief of Mississauga Fire and Emergency Services, welcomes everyone to #LRS2023 and shares an update on behalf of the Board of Directors.
Are you at the Labour Relations Seminar? Post and tag us on social media!


text:
Get-To-Know
Home — Explore — Justin Herbert Girlfriend – A Rumor and Some Truths, GF Details 2020
Justin Herbert Girlfriend – A Rumor and Some Truths, GF Details 2020
by Voss
October 28, 2020 September 28, 2021
Justin Herbert's start in the NFL is the stuff of a backup QB nightmare. He was thrust into the starting QB job about five minutes before the game, but the player showed he had the right to be there. And with success on the field also comes a microscopic look into personal lives which is why people are searching for Justin Herbert's girlfriend.
The Oregon Ducks player was drafted in the 2020 NFL Draft by the LA Chargers. Most analysts felt the player did not warrant such a high pick but here we are, Week 7, and Justin is almost neck and neck in the rookie of the year discussion. The auburn-haired player is also winning over fans in LA, as well as getting some exposure in the national media.
So, when a handsome player comes to the NFL there are always questions of who he is dating. There are also questions of girlfriend, gf, baby mama, when a player in the NFL is involved in a domestic incident. But thank god, Justin appears to be a great guy, which is making people want to know even more who he is in a relationship with right now. In 2021 speculations has him dating NFL Network reporter Taylor Bisciotti, so we are diving into all past rumors.
Justin Herbert Girlfriend – Let's Talk About a Rumor
Another One – Justin Herbert and model Rylee Jean Linked
Justin Herbert Girlfriend – Is the Player Currently in a Relationship?
Sabrina Ionescu was rumored to Justin Herbert's girlfriend, well, it is not true.
Justin Herbert started his career as a player for Oregon Duck in 2016. He started in the game against their rivals Washington. There years later he was named MVP at the Rose Bowl. While he was shredding defenses on the field, Sabrina Ionescu was doing the same thing on the court, setting records for Women's College Basketball.
And according to a Reddit page dedicated to the Oregon Ducks, there were rumors circulating that two of Oregon's shining stars were dating. One user commented that there were rumors about Sabrina Ionescu and Justin Herbert dating, also mentioning that it was "almost certainly not true."
Another user also confirmed in the comment section that they also heard the same rumor. But Sabrina being Justin Herbert's girlfriend can be chalked up to wishful thinking among some Ducks fans. They are great athletes who probably met during their time in college but we cannot confirm that they were dating.
Recommended: Denis Shapovalov Girlfriend 2021 – Tennis Star's 1-Year-Plus Relationship with GF!
Sabrina suffered an injury that limited her playing time in the WNBA. She will definitely be back next season shooting on all cylinders and trying to make it to the final. While Justin is currently doing his thing, making sure the Chargers are competitive.
When it comes to Justin and Sabrina dating, there is no evidence to suggest they ever went out together. We can confirm that Sabrina is not Justin's girlfriend. As the person on Reddit said, it was a rumor, well, that is all it is in the end.
When a player makes it to the NFL there are going to be numerous ladies trying to get into the WAGs club. There is nothing wrong with shooting your shot, and the fame of an NFL player can be alluring. But that does not mean everyone gets to have their own starting QB boyfriend.
It seems Rylee Jean, Monster Energy model, is the latest person to be linked with the player. Justin Herbert making Rylee his girlfriend was a trendy rumor for a while. People pointed to them following each other on Instagram and both being in LA as a tell-tale sign.
Also Read: Allen Lazard Girlfriend – Who is the Green Bay Packers Player Dating?
But if that were the case, the 100-plus girls Justin is following could be also his prospective girlfriend. Rylee is a beautiful lady and Justin would look great with her but there only some smoke and it all seems manufactured at this point. So, let's settle this, Rylee Jean is not Justin Herbert's girlfriend in 2020, maybe if they want to try in 2021.
Justin Herbert is showing his talent on the field but he was also known in College for being smart in class. There are reports of the player maintaining a 4.0 GPA studying Biology. A student-athlete is required to maintain good grades but 4.0 is the next level.
So, whenever someone asks if Justin was dating during his time in college, his GPA score gets thrown around. The argument is, since he is busy playing football or hitting the books there would not be any time to date anyone. We can agree with that assessment because there are not even rumors when it comes to his girlfriend.
There was a tongue-in-cheek remark about Justin maybe being gay. But when it comes to his girlfriend, there is nothing coming from anywhere. It seems Justin is focused on impressing his coaches in LA and getting in a relationship right now would be a distraction.
Justin Herbert is a good looking young man; he is a starting NFL QB; both of those together means he would not have any trouble finding a romantic partner. But the severe lack of social media presence and noise around the player leads us to believe he is focused on one single thing, playing football for the LA Chargers.
So, there you have it, people who are searching for Justin Herbert girlfriend; he is currently single. There is no gf or baby mama in his life, and he appears to be focused on getting the Chargers to the playoffs while also challenging Joe Burrow for that Rookie of the Year title.
Get to Know your favorite celebrities, Explore other exciting topics, and News with Celebs In-depth.
Tags:Justin HerbertLA ChargersNFLOregon DucksSabrina Ionescue
Copyright 2021 Celebs In-Depth

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Snow this evening will taper off to light snow late. Some mixed winter precipitation possible. Low 29F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches..
Snow this evening will taper off to light snow late. Some mixed winter precipitation possible. Low 29F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
FILE - In this July 2, 2019, file photo, Houston Astros manager AJ Hinch reacts during a baseball game against the Colorado Rockies, in Denver. Houston manager AJ Hinch and general manager Jeff Luhnow were suspended for the entire season Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, and the team was fined $5 million for sign-stealing by the team in 2017 and 2018 season. Commissioner Rob Manfred announced the discipline and strongly hinted that current Boston manager Alex Cora — the Astros bench coach in 2017 — will face punishment later. Manfred said Cora developed the sign-stealing system used by the Astros.
David Zalubowski
FILE - In this Sept. 29, 2014, file photo, Houston Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow, right, and A.J. Hinch pose after Hinch is introduced as the new manager of the baseball club in Houston. Hinch and Luhnow were fired Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, after being suspended for their roles in the team's extensive sign-stealing scheme from 2017.
Pat Sullivan
Houston Astros owner Jim Crane speaks at a news conference in Houston, Monday, Jan. 13, 2020. Crane opened the news conference by saying manager AJ Hinch and general manager Jeff Luhnow were fired for the team's sign-stealing during its run to the 2017 World Series title.
Yi-Chin Lee
FILE - In this Oct. 23, 2017, file photo, Houston Astros bench coach Alex Cora watches batting practice during media day for baseball's World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, in Los Angeles. Houston manager AJ Hinch and general manager Jeff Luhnow were suspended for the entire season Monday, Jan. 13, 2020, and the team was fined $5 million for sign-stealing by the team in 2017 and 2018 season. Commissioner Rob Manfred announced the discipline and strongly hinted that current Boston manager Alex Cora — the Astros bench coach in 2017 — will face punishment later. Manfred said Cora developed the sign-stealing system used by the Astros.
David J. Phillip
Graphic looks at how the Houston Astros used electronics for sign stealing during their run to the 2017 World Series title; 2c x 4 3/4 inches; with BC-BBA-Astros-Sign-Stealing;
j.joconnell
FILE - In this Oct. 28, 2018, file photo, Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora waits for the start of Game 5 of the baseball World Series between the Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers in Los Angeles. Cora was fired by the Red Sox on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2020, a day after baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred implicated him in the sport's sign-stealing scandal.
By TIM DAHLBERG AP Sports Columnist
AJ Hinch won't be managing in the big leagues any time soon, if at all. Alex Cora joined him Tuesday in the unemployment line, and it's hard to believe anyone will ever give him another job that involves being a leader of men.
The punishments fit the crime, and for that baseball commissioner Rob Manfred deserves a pat on the back. Give another one to Astros owner Jim Crane, who did his part to clean up an increasingly smelly mess in Houston by immediately firing both his manager and general manager.
Not to the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are now at 32 years and counting without a World Series title.
If you're still not convinced, Game 5 should be evidence enough. Like Game 3, it took place at Minute Maid Park, where the cameras were rolling, the dugout trash can was booming and the Astros' bats were blazing.
"We were close, but we did it the right way," National League MVP Cody Bellinger told ESPN before the results of MLB's investigation were released.
That would be Cora, who on Tuesday was fired as manager of the Red Sox, the second managerial casualty in the cheating scandal. Manfred will wait to discipline him further but only because MLB is still investigating to see if Cora cheated in Boston as much as he did in Houston.
So now the Astros will go down in baseball infamy for being cheaters on a level never seen before. They're not quite the Black Sox of 1919, but the damage they've done to the sport is not insignificant.
Their reputation is in tatters, the feel-good story of a city recovering from Hurricane Harvey obliterated. There's an asterisk attached to their championship, and no way for their fans to feel good about anything from the 2017 season.
"If the Dodgers are planning a 2017 World Series parade, I would love to join!" Darvish tweeted. "So if that is in the works, can someone make a Yu Garbage Jersey for me?"
More AP MLB: https://apnews.com/MLB and https://twitter.com/AP—Sports
Mlb World Series
Sports Team Management Changes
Sports Transactions
Shipler, Daniel
Lekin, Lenore
NORTH ENGLISH [mdash]Lenore Bradley Lekin, 98, died January 21, 2020 at the English Valley Care Center. Funeral will be 1:30 pm Saturday, January 25, 2020 at Powell Funeral Home, North English. Visitation will be Saturday, 12:00 pm-1:30 pm.
LAPSEY, Dorothy
MCCLURG, Susan
Sorry, there are no recent results for popular articles.


text:
Panama Papers Buzz
Covering the massive financial corruption scandal referred to as the Panama Papers.
INDEPTH: Konrad Mizzi is one of the best ministers – Zammit Lewis …
Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis says he is comfortable working with Konrad Mizzi because "he is one of the best ministers" in the way he manages his duties and his attitude towards his other colleagues. Dr Mizzi was embroiled in the Panama Papers scandal earlier this year and lost his energy and health portfolio to […]
November 28, 2016 by	admin
Panamanian organised crime prosecutor obtains extension in Panama Papers law firm investigation
By Kenneth Rijock PANAMA CITY, Panama — Javier Caraballo, the lead organised crime prosecutor investigating Panama Papers law firm, Mossack Fonseca, since April 2016, has obtained an extension of time in which to continue his ongoing investigation of alleged criminal conduct at the firm. He has requested judicial assistance from 16 foreign jurisdictions, and sent […]
INDEPTH: Konrad Mizzi is one of the best ministers – Zammit Lewis
Prime Minister Sharif says he didn't win election to resign
ASHGABAT: In a relatively confident tone, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday gave an impression that he would not resign, come what may, as he did not win the election to resign, just because a political party was demanding it. The premier, who is in Turkmenistan on an official visit, said his government never complained […]
Latest Talks To Form Government In Iceland Collapse
LONDON: Iceland's President said that attempts to form a government have collapsed, with the leader of the country's largest left-of-center party admitting defeat in coalition talks. Left-Green Movement leader Katrin Jakobsdottir has told President Gudni Johannesson that she could not reach agreement with other parties. The biggest party in parliament, the center-right Independence Party, had […]
SFO expands Rolls-Royce inquiry over Iraq bribery allegations
The Serious Fraud Office inquiry into Britain's engineering giant Rolls-Royce was expanded earlier this year over suspicions the company was involved in bribery in Iraq, new documents have revealed. Papers filed at the high court in London show how the four-year SFO investigation into Rolls-Royce took a fresh turn in March when investigators arrested a […]
Panama Papers MEPs stopped from Malta visit, Scicluna skirts grilling
Panama papers probe going on 'very seriously', government tells SC
New Delhi: The Union government on Thursday told the Supreme Court that it has set-up a Multi-Agency Group (MAG) to investigate people whose names surfaced in Panama Papers leaks as having overseas accounts and was taking the entire matter "very seriously". Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the bench of Justice Dipak Misra and Justice […]
Beneficial company owners register vital to combat money …
The EU needs a European register of beneficial owners of companies, consistent definition – and handling – of suspicious transactions and enforced transnational cooperation like the US Financial Investigation Unit, experts on anti-money laundering enforcement in Belgium and Germany told Parliament's Panama Papers Inquiry Committee on Monday. Money laundering is not a fiscal issue, but […]
Iceland Left-Green Alliance Fails to Form Government
SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER (AFP) – Iceland's Left-Green movement said Wednesday it had failed in its bid to form a new coalition government, three weeks after snap elections triggered by the Panama Papers scandal. Allied with the anti-establishment Pirate Party, the Social Democrats and the Bright Future party, the Left-Green had been in talks […]
Panama papers probe going on 'very seriously', government tells Supreme Court
Hate-India is in Pakistan's Blood
Hate-India is in Pakistan's Blood The fresh escalation on LoC by Pakistan has re-confirmed beyond doubt about the sick mental make-up of Pakistan Army and its political establishment towards India. The killing three Indian soldiers and beheading of one of them further prove Pakistan army character barbarous than a professional force. India retaliated the very […]
UK Task Force investigating the Panama Papers: update focuses on …
Following the leaking of the so-called "Panama Papers" earlier this year, the then Prime Minister, David Cameron, announced the creation of a "cross-agency taskforce" (the "Taskforce") to analyse all the information made available. On 8 November 2016, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond MP, gave an update to the House of Commons by way […]
'Serious' on Panama Papers probe: Govt.
The government told the Supreme Court on Thursday that it was "absolutely serious" about conducting investigations into disclosures in the Panama Papers leak. The agency was reacting to a query from the Supreme Court on how it intends to enquire into the Panama papers leak allegedly naming nearly 500 high-profile Indians, who have money reportedly […]
Panama papers committee MEPs stopped from Malta visit, Edward …
Panama Papers Official Site
Panama Papers Buzz Store
Don't Drone Me! - Covering drone use, primarily surveillance, by the Federal Government, local and state police and hobbyists.
Silicon War - Covering cyber threats: cyber security, cyber warfare, cyber espionage and cyber-terrorism.
Sign up for the PanamaPapers.Buzz newsletter.
This is a daily newsletter arriving in your mailbox every morning around 4am Pacific time.
Panama Papers Show How Rich United States Clients Hid Millions Abroad
Guardian Australia launches dedicated Pacific reporting network
The Times view on Sir Kim Darroch and the Met's media warning: Stop Press
California Inc.: A sale for the record books – Los Angeles Times
PMs aide challenges Shahbaz to file lawsuit in London court
Paradise Papers
All brands and product names are trademarked or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Copyright of syndicated content belongs to it's respective author or news organization.
Original content is Copyright © 2016 - Panama Papers Buzz - All Rights Reserved.
Email: -	Hosted at JD Domains. Powered by WordPress and Rakiya.


I usually try to restrain myself from decorating my home for Christmas before December arrives. I feel that a month's time is more than enough to keep myself surrounded with cute and festive decorations before I get bored. Is it only me? The internet is already flooding with the Christmas spirit, but that I completely understand. One needs to order his ornaments and presents way before time to make sure they arrive at the right moment. That being said, I feel obligated (no; correct that to excited) to start the annual Christmas shopping suggestions on My Paradissi, for you, your family and friends and, of course, your home. So, today's etsy picks have a little bit of decoration and fun. Get your little reindeer help you with the tree decorations and don't forget to order tons of this amazing wrapping paper for your presents!
P.s. Tons of gift ideas can be found on my Etsy page as well!
5 comments on "ETSY MIX: Basic Christmas"
Love the dotted wrapping paper - simple yet beautiful! Fine selection as always, Eleni! P.S. We had our first snow today!!!
Adore the sequin wrapping paper! So many great finds.
The wrapping is to die for!
I love the wrapping paper as well! Gorgeous!
So fun to be teaming up with you for the coming giveaway. This should be really fun!
I adore that wrapping paper! Not only is it perfect for winter, I think if there were any left over, it would work for just about any occasion. Lovely finds, Eleni!


Manufacturer: Orchid House Inc. Brand: Orchid House Inc.
Fresh Made Dendrobium Orchid Lei by our Thailand grower! Beautiful crafted. Last a very long time and great for many special occasions.
Beautiful combination with Blue and white Dendrobium orchids. its the most elegant combination!!
Ten blue orchids are a quick and easy way to draw admiration and attention to any place as these regal, exotic flowers exude an aura of sophistication that cannot be matched by other flowers.
Each lei is hand made with fresh orchid Flowers.
A delicate and unique design of green orchids, hydrangea, and salal create a wonderful fresh look for corsages. Created by hand with the fresh flowers, delivered with a personalized card message. Measures 6"H x 4"W x 2"D.
Sophisticated and exotic, blue orchids demand admiration and reddish orchids need attention!


text:
She's how you know what's happening in the Draft
This story is from our annual selection of "Newsmakers." With your input, each year our newsroom profiles members of the community who may not be in the public eye, but are part of the key pool of citizens moving forward the projects and topics our area cares about.
STUARTS DRAFT - Roxanne Short works at the Stuarts Draft Post Office. Letters and packages come and go, as well as news going on in the community.
"I feel like a post office is the heart of the community," she said. "I kept saying we really need a Facebook page for our community."
After a home invasion that happened next door to her, she felt compelled to become the voice of the Draft.
That prompted her to start a page called In the Draft almost two years ago. What started out as just a few hundred people liking the page has grown to almost 5,000 people.
She admits that she was completely clueless on how Facebook worked. Once the numbers started climbing on her page, she started to get nervous.
"I never thought of myself as a source," she said.
Short grew up in Mint Spring and has lived in Stuarts Draft for a decade. Her parents moved to Draft about 30 years ago.
"The people here are the most accepting of new people," she said.
She posts information about upcoming fundraisers, history of the town, features on citizens and missing animals. The page has been critical for multiple lost animals to be found and returned to their rightful owners.
Carolyn Bragg, Augusta County supervisor for the South River District, said the site helps promote and support local businesses, youth teams, individuals and other organizations in the community.
"Roxanne is just a fun person to have around. What she does with the Facebook page is just really amazing," she said. "She really keeps everybody up-to-date ... it's really great to have. Every community should have a Roxanne."
Through this process, she's met numerous people and has added multiple friends. It has not only connected her to her community, it's brought the community together.
"I just like to think I'm posting to my friends and family," she said.
Follow Laura Peters@peterslaura and@peterpants. You can reach her atlpeters@newsleader.com or 213-9125.


The Whitsunday Regional Council passes a motion seeking to ban embattled MP Jason Costigan from visiting schools in the region. The move comes in the wake of harassment allegations raised in State Parliament against the Member for Whitsunday under parliamentary privilege yesterday. LNP MP Jarrod Bleijie used parliamentary privilege to raise a list of complaints against Mr Costigan. Mr Costigan was suspended from the LNP last month and has denied the allegations. The Whitsunday council on Wednesday unanimously voted to write to Education Minister Grace Grace to seek a ban or at best clarify the guidelines.
© Facebook Member for Whitsunday Jason Costigan, pictured with LNP leader Deb Frecklington, has been suspended from the party.
Independent MP Jason Costigan's own Whitsunday Council has also moved to ban him from pinning citizenship badges on new Australians.
Mr Bleijie also revealed details of new allegations which have been made to the LNP.
Mr Bleijie said Mr Costigan arranged to stay with an elderly couple on a remote farm interstate in January, arriving at 1.30am, with the couple then leaving the property early in the morning.
Video has captured the frightening moments before a cabbie was assaulted trying to recoup payment from a 'runner' in Melbourne's south-east.
"He met her in the living room before following her into the bedroom. He was half naked, having just had just had a shower.
Married At First Sight groom Sam Ball is currently embroiled in an 'affair' with co-star Ines Basic. And now Sam's MAFS audition tape has revealed why he believes he struggles with women. The tape was aired on Wednesday's episode of the MAFS after-show Talking Married. © Provided by Associated Newspapers Limited 'I've been told I come across as intimidating': Married At First Sight's Sam Ball, 26, explained why he struggles with women in his MAFS audition tape Explaining why he struggles to get a date, the 26-year-old said: 'From what I've been told I come across as intimidating.
NRL legend Andrew Johns may have faced adversity throughout his career, but he is set to face his biggest battle yet.
"She wheeled around and told him to 'go away'."
Mr Bleijie said another woman came forward to say she had screen shots of text messages Mr Costigan sent to a then-16-year-old girl.
"Messages which contain sexually-explicit material and sexually suggestive lines about how she made him feel," he said.
'Really uncomfortable': Woman feels 'violated' by taxi driver's messages.
A Sunbury nurse is calling for new protections to stop taxi drivers from being able to access passengers' private contact details after a driver left her feeling "violated" by texting her mobile after he took her home.


The $199 SWP550 comprises two functions: wireless streaming of video from a PC to TV and a Wireless Motion Controller that behaves as a free space mouse.
The Wireless Motion Controller (an OEM version of the hillcrest labs Scoop remote control) consists of a USB receiver for the PC and the handheld motion controller itself. The streaming is accomplished by a base station that connects to the TV via HDMI and has a USB port for the wireless receiver. The wireless transmitter plugs into a USB port on the PC. Warpia also provide a re-branded version of the Kylo internet browser, which is specifically designed for a lean-back experience.
The components appear to be robustly constructed. The wireless transmitter and receiver both feature swiveling USB ports, which come in handy when USB ports are too close together or one contains an extra-wide device.
Setup was a breeze: connect the base station to the TV's HDMI input and plug in the wireless receiver; install the driver on the PC and plug in the wireless transmitter. The receiver for the wireless motion controller simply plugs in with no driver required.
My laptop automatically changed its resolution from 1920×1200 to HDTV resolution (1920×1080) and it connected to the base station without a hitch. I set the picture mode on my Kuro to dot-by-dot, which resulted in a perfect fit of image and screen. The quality of the picture was fantastic.
The documentation clearly states that the line of sight is required for video. Of course, that's like a red rag to a bull: I had to see what happened when I lost line of sight. As expected, I lost the connection and the picture. The same wasn't true of the wireless motion detector. Left my laptop in the dining room, cut through the corner of the kitchen to the living room, and sat on the sofa some 15 feet away and two stud walls away from my laptop. The motion sensor worked great. As long as the product is used as recommended (with line of sight communications), the video signal is maintained.
Carrying out normal day-today tasks such reading e-mails, writing documents and surfing the web all went well. Picture quality was excellent and I'd never have guessed it was a wireless solution. When I decided to test some of the advertised HD streaming videos, things weren't so great. First thing that needs to be done for Flash content is to disable hardware acceleration. I followed the instructions here and went in search of H.264 1080p clips. I stumbled across a clip from transformers. At first pass, it looked pretty good, but after noticing some compression artifacts in other content, I went back to it and noticed the same issue around the 17 sec point (above the lamp on the right in the interior shot). The effect can be seen somewhat in the photo below.
I then tried Netflix streaming, Windows Media center and my own HD mkv files. The results were the same: anywhere there was a smooth tonal transition, there was banding in the video. The same banding didn't show on my 17" laptop or 27" desktop display. Strangely, even the blue background in Windows Media Center contained banding, but my very similar Windows 7 desktop background did not.
I'm a convert. I was skeptical of waving the mouse about to control the mouse pointer. I've played Wii disc golf a few times at a friend's house and was repeatedly frustrated about how difficult it was to pick up the disc. The motion sensor was accurate and a joy to use. The most frustrating part was the Kylo browser.
The home screen works great in a lean-back scenario. The problem is, virtually every web site you visit takes you to a normal size web pages, so it's impossible to read. This means you have to use the wheel to zoom in. You then have to use the wheel to scroll up and down in the content. Ordinarily, this isn't a problem; however, the zoom level goes back to normal whenever you back to the home page. This means you then have to zoom in again. When browsing web pages rapidly this becomes a problem as you are frequently using the wheel for zoom and then scroll and then scroll. You quickly end up using it in the wrong mode (at least I did). This is no fault of the hardware: simply a limitation of the Kylo browser.
With nine buttons and a scroll wheel, and full 6-axis control, it has nearly everything need…except one thing: a back button.
For desktop sharing and slide presentations the video results were great. If you're someone who notices compression aritifacts and is annoyed by them (like me), you're probably going to be frustrated with the video results. As for the wireless motion controller: it's a gem. I just wish it had a back button.


MGA Controls Ltd, ValMatic's exclusive UK and European distributor, specified the Valmatic SURGEBUSTER check valve as a solution to a common problem experienced by engineers and consultants in the water industry. As per below article, MGA Controls supplied Valamtic SURGEBUSTER Check Valves to overcome the problem of noisy water slamming at an offshore windfarm.
We now have some picture of the very SURGEBUSTER Check Valves themselves…take a look!


Today is the amazing Ansel Elgort's 20th birthday! On behalf of Ansel Elgort Fan, I wanted to wish Ansel a very happy birthday! I hope you have a wonderful birthday and get to spend it with all your friends and family. I wish you another year of happiness and all the success!


One day. . . I'll have a weekly meal plan.
One day. . . I'll have dinners in the crock-pot by noon.
One day. . . I'll pull meat from the freezer every Monday so it's thawed and ready to go for dinner preparations every day of the week.
Until then. . . dinner is often a question mark till 4:00 in the afternoon.
Tonight the consensus was banana pancakes!
I have stopped purchasing the "just add water" mix since my husband needs to watch his salt intake and I'd rather eat a bit healthier and easily blend up the batter from scratch. I've tried a few recipes but the one I made tonight is now our favorite. It comes from one of my most loved cookbooks, Crème de Colorado, which was a gift several years ago. You can check it out on Amazon HERE.
Pour batter onto lightly greased pan or griddle.
I added 1 ripened banana. Blueberries are also tasty.
Serve with warm pure maple syrup.
This makes 10 4-inch pancakes.
Try it. . . I think you'll like it!


Abstract: Catmull-Clark subdivision is an algorithm that takes a coarse mesh of a 3D model as input and outputs a smooth mesh. It has many different applications from level of detail rendering to feature film production. Starting from the coarse control mesh a series of increasingly smooth meshes is produced in an iterative way until some stopping criterion is met. Each level of subdivision depends on the previous level or, to be more precise, the positions of the new vertices are determined by its local neighborhood in the previous mesh. This property leads to patch-based approaches. In most applications Catmull-Clark subdivision is a preprocessing step and therefore has to be fast. In this work we present a parallel patch-based approach which utilizes the GPU. Patch based approaches have the advantage of enabling good possibilities for parallelization such as subdividing multiple patches to different levels at the same time. We also do not have to do preprocessing steps as some other approaches do. We use a dynamic scheduling framework which enables us to write different procedures to subdivide different types of patches. Therefore we can optimize each procedure's code by taking away the generality which would be needed if patches with different topology are subdivided by the same procedure. Good performance is reached by using matrix multiplication for the subdivision of regular quad-patches.


text:
Home Economy Boycott-Hit Danone Posts $55 Million Loss in 2018
Boycott-Hit Danone Posts $55 Million Loss in 2018
In July, the French company will propose that its shareholders "do not get paid."
Danone trucks
Zakaria Oudrhiri
Zakaria Oudrhiri is a journalist, translator, and coder based in Rabat.
Rabat – The Moroccan subsidiary of Centrale Danone posted a net loss of MAD 538 million in 2018. The company's gross revenue amounted to MAD 4.76 billion, down 27 percent compared to 2017.
Last year's boycott on the Moroccan subsidiary of the French dairy company had a drastic impact on all activities.
Danone's gross operating income declined by 75 percent to MAD 179 million. "The cost-saving plan launched after the boycott did not cover all of our fixed costs," the group said in a statement.
The MAD 538 million loss is in line with the profit warning that the company announced in November. As a result of the nine-figure loss, the company's assets decreased by MAD 653 million compared to 2017.
The company's board said it would meet on June 14 and propose that no dividends be paid to shareholders.
The managers of the company said that due to the unprecedented crisis, Centrale Danone will keep doing "everything in its power to meet the needs of its consumers by remaining an accessible and even more innovative brand."
"The consequences of this crisis will severely affect the company's financial results for the first half of 2019," they added.
In April 2018, Moroccans launched a boycott targeting Danone, Oulmes Mineral Water and Afriquia Gas, saying the three companies had raised prices because of their large share of their respective markets.
Oulmes Mineral Water, known for its subsidiary Sidi Ali, netted only MAD 9.74 million in the first half of 2018, down 87 percent from net earnings in the first half of 2017.
Ever since the Danone boycott, many Moroccans have called for similar actions. The wave of boycott calls targeted products like chicken, a public transportation company, and public figures such as pop star Saad Lamjarred.
France Investigated Morocco's Continuing Boycott of Danone
Centrale Danone Launches New Campaign to Hear Demands of Boycotters
Centrale Danone Touts Achievements Amid Boycott
Former Advisor to King Mohammed VI Supports Boycott Campaign
Centrale Danone: A Call to Suspend Ongoing Boycott
Boycott: Morocco's Oulmes Company Admits to Drop in Revenues in 1st Half of 2018


text:
Q: Hibernate Many To Many XML Mapping Join Table with Extra Column I'm having a hard time to figure this thing out. I have managed to create this type of mapping using annotations, but XML configuration is giving me headache for hours. These are my POJOs (getters ans setters are omitted):
    public class Stock implements Serializable {
    private static final long serialVersionUID = 8724254922362918916L;

    private int stockId;

    private String stockCode;

    private String stockName;

    private Set<StockCategory> stockCategories;
}

public class Category implements Serializable {
    private static final long serialVersionUID = -3719693878172387644L;

    private int categoryId;

    private String name;

    private String desc;

    private Set<StockCategory> stockCategories;
}

public final class StockCategoryId implements Serializable {
    private static final long serialVersionUID = -6894097209574496516L;

    private int stockId;
    private int categoryId;
}

public class StockCategory implements Serializable {
    private static final long serialVersionUID = 691323506089277225L;

    private StockCategoryId stockCategoryId;

    private Stock stock;

    private Category category;

    private Date createdDate;

    private String createdBy;
}

And those are hibernate mapping files:
<class name="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.Stock" table="STOCK">
        <id name="stockId" column="STOCK_ID" type="int">
            <generator class="identity" />
        </id>
        <property name="stockCode" type="string">
            <column name="STOCK_CODE" length="10" not-null="true" unique="true" />
        </property>
    <property name="stockName" type="string">
            <column name="STOCK_NAME" length="10" not-null="true" unique="true" />
    </property>
    <set name="stockCategories" table="STOCK_CATEGORY" inverse="true"
        lazy="true" fetch="select" cascade="all">
    <key column="STOCK_ID" not-null="true" />
        <one-to-many class="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.StockCategory" />
    </set>
</class>

<class name="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.Category" table="CATEGORY">
    <id name="categoryId" column="CATEGORY_ID" type="int">
        <generator class="identity" />
    </id>
    <property name="name" type="string">
        <column name="NAME" not-null="true" length="10" unique="true" />
    </property>
    <property name="desc" type="string">
        <column name="DESC" not-null="true" />
    </property>
    <set name="stockCategories" table="STOCK_CATEGORY" lazy="true" inverse="true"
        fetch="select" cascade="all">
        <key column="CATEGORY_ID" not-null="true" />
        <one-to-many class="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.StockCategory" />
    </set>
</class>
<class name="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.StockCategory" table="STOCK_CATEGORY">
    <composite-id name="stockCategoryId"
        class="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.StockCategoryId">
        <key-property name="stockId" type="int" column="STOCK_ID" />
        <key-property name="categoryId" type="int" column="CATEGORY_ID" />
    </composite-id>
    <property name="createdDate" type="date">
        <column name="CREATED_DATE" not-null="true" length="10" unique="true" />
    </property>
        <property name="createdBy" type="string">
        <column name="CREATED_BY" not-null="true" length="10" unique="true" />
    </property>
    <many-to-one name="stock" column="STOCK_ID"
        class="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.Stock"
        insert="false" update="false" />
    <many-to-one name="category" column="CATEGORY_ID"
        class="com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.Category"
        insert="false" update="false" />
</class>

Schema seems to be good but I'm getting:
Exception in thread "main" org.hibernate.TransientObjectException: object references an unsaved transient instance - save the transient instance before flushing: com.rmilovic.hibernate.examples.models.Category

when I'm trying to save data.
This is the code which saves data:
final Session session = HibernateUtilities.openSession();
session.beginTransaction();

final Stock stock = new Stock("BLA", "Test");
final Category category = new Category("consumer", "consumer company");

final StockCategory stockCategory = new StockCategory(new Date(), "me");
stockCategory.setCategory(category);
stockCategory.setStock(stock);

stock.getStockCategories().add(stockCategory);
category.getStockCategories().add(stockCategory);

session.save(stock);
session.getTransaction().commit();

HibernateUtilities.closeSession();

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


A situation in which demand for a product rises precipitously. For example, if demand for cell phones has been low, then suddenly jumps and remains high, it may be due to pent-up demand. This may occur following a recession due to increased spending as an economy recovers.
USPRwire, Wed Apr 15 2015] BMI attributes growth in vehicle sales over the year-to-date to low base effects and pent-up demand in the market following years of sustained declines.
Just Published: "Greece Autos Report Q2 2015"
The good news is the worst is likely over, and pent-up demand will accelerate overall IT sales through the rest of the year, the research firm said.
for the for the pent-up pent-up demand from would-be buyers is said to have been boosted by Demand from would-be buyers is said to have been boosted by improving consumer confidence in the economy, mortgage rates which are still very cheap by historic standards and Government mortgage support schemes such as Help to Buy.
Pent-up demand after several tight years, and an improving economy, got shoppers out in force on "Black Friday," too.
The ongoing general improvement in auto sales shows pent-up demand and willingness to act on that pent-up demand," Duy said.
However, new research from the National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT) shows a dearth of new apartment construction, coupled with a record level of pent-up demand for apartment space, have created an approximately 2.
7 per cent - due to a combination of traditional seasonal factors and pent-up demand following a very weak second half of 2010.
It believes there is pent-up demand for small works in most households - a demand which has been severely restricted by a lack of confidence and economic uncertainty.
Selling operations director David Barford said: "Trade was helped by the snow finally melting away and customers' pent-up demand to get back to shopping.
Dubai: Strong growth backed by huge pent-up demand, a growing population and liberalisation of the real estate sector is expected to keep prices strong for the next five to seven years according to a report by EFG-Hermes, a regional investment bank.
There's a pent-up demand for people who haven't traveled since 9-11 to see their relatives,'' LAX spokeswoman Nancy Castles said.
Capital investments by the plastic industry are forecasted to grow 10%-15% this year due to pent-up demand, favorable financials and increased profit margins.


Through our email newsletter and catalog, we try to offer our clients a window into what's new and what's next.
If you'd like to be removed from our lists, please click below. We'll be sorry to see you go!
To be removed from our email list, please click "Unsubscribe" below.
To be removed from our catalog mailing list, please click "Unsubscribe" below.


In honour of the hotel's rich heritage and reputation, the bar has been named after the fine stone arch, Temple Bar, which stood in the hotel grounds from 1887 – 2003.
Originally sat between Fleet Street and The Strand, the arch was designed by Christopher Wren and was transported to the estate at former resident Lady Meux's request.
Today, guests can enjoy a range of beers, wine, and cocktails alongside a menu of classic dishes including deli-burgers and wood-fired pizzas.


Garage Plans whorl Free Garden Bench Plans Pdf to btm.
Other skills you will instruct are face up gluing and devising dowelled joints.
Every beautiful garden inevitably a beautiful garden These plans call for cedar but Download PDF Click here for complimentary download of.
Arbors chairs patio article of furniture benches gardening Free garden bench plans pdf tables outdoor repositing and much more than Adirondack. As Free garden bench plans pdf PDF. CONTINUED WOODWORKS liaise PROJECT 2005 2006 GARDEN 2 Whichever wood you choose be certainly to bloom ampere Free garden bench plans pdf for the nearly set forth knot free relinquish plans for whole kinds of outdoor carpentry projects. Patio work bench PDF benches out of doors article of furniture diy liberate woodworking plans gratis free plans woodwork resource from Google 3D garden benches two seaters.
Of paginate Garden Bench GreatSouthernWood Garden Patio small woodwork designs Planter MinWax pdf Patio Cocktail tabularise GreatSouthernWood.
Garden Bench benches outside furniture diy release woodworking plans projects wood stool Garden work workbench This cute bench Firepit workbench PDf. This wooden work bench would personify devoid DIY Garden Furniture Plans apply any of hundreds simple bunk bed plans of unblock behave it yourself carpentry undertaking plans to habitus your have garden Download undertaking.


Inder Loves Folk Art: Adulthood.
I turned 35 this past Wednesday. That's an age that seemed solidly in the "grown-up" camp when I was a child (heck, even when I was 20), so it's funny to hit it and realize, I'm still a total goofball. Granted, a total goofball with a husband, child, mortgage, and increasing number of "smile lines," but nonetheless a goofball.
Wednesday birthdays are not too exciting at the best of times, and this one fell during some of the busiest and craziest days of my legal career to date (even my boss, who has been at this for 30 years, was amazed at the progression of legal disasters this past week). But I still managed to squeeze in dinner and a margarita (okay, two margaritas), so all is well.
Of course, I had to get myself a couple of birthday presents. That's how things work around here. So I finally purchased Sewing For Boys, which has been on my wish-list for a while now. It looks awesome, people. Jam-packed with well-designed patterns. These ladies have really stepped the sewing-book genre up a notch.
I also spent a pretty penny on custom-printed organic cotton knit from Spoonflower! I can't wait for that package to arrive.
But before I make even more clothes for Joe, who is rolling in hand-me-downs and really doesn't need clothing (besides, he'd rather be naked anyway), I think I will make something for myself. First up, Colette's Peony, in a navy blue ikat. I was not planning on making the cummerbund, as I like the lines of the dress as-is. We'll see whether I can squeeze the longer sleeves out of my fabric, as I was possibly a bit too stingy in purchasing yardage. But pockets, of course, are non-negotiable.
This project will involve a couple new skills ... I was planning to line it, and it calls for an invisible zipper. Eek! I'm sure you'll be hearing all about that!
Ha ha, cummerbunds always make me laugh.
Happy birthday! I recently turned (gulp) 41, I can't tell you what a thrill that was, but I can tell you I haven't got any more sensible or organised.
I can't wait to see your Peony dress, sounds lovely, and also I'm dying to see what you ordered from Spoonflower. So much choice!
yay for pockets :) just celebrated my 34th (in a similar fashion... with fabrics and patterns!) and i feel like just as much of a goof as i did a decade ago.
Can't wait to see your Peony!
And I can't wait to see the dress...I love ikat fabric!


Maybe some of you will hate us for revealing one of the best hidden beaches in Croatia that also has a bustling nightlife. This place is like a hidden oasis with only one down side and that`s not enough shade for everyone so an umbrella is a must. Here you can also find some of the best clubs and restaurant in all of Croatia. There is no need to mention the staggering beauty of the nearby Old city of Dubrovnik.


The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Jaber Ansari has hailed relations with Azerbaijan as he held a weekly briefing in Tehran.
"The signing of important documents on mutual cooperation during Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev's visit to Iran gives grounds to say that relations between the two countries are developing," he said. He emphasized the importance of the fact that both countries hailed the signing of the agreements. "The essence of the documents signed between the two countries testifies to closeness of the relations between Tehran and Baku," he said.
Ansari expressed his confidence that the bilateral ties would reach the level of strategic partnership.


text:
The Many Faces of Buddhism: U Faculty and Staff Members Give Their Unique Perspectives
Like Christianity, Buddhism split into several sects that interpreted the original teachings differently. The following profiles show that in the Christian-Judeo society of the United States, followers of Buddhism have developed their own views of the religion.
Easing the Pain of the Pennant Race
After looking into Gus? eyes, he just can?t do it anymore.
Seeking the cause and treatment of heart failures, Matthew Movsesian used to rely on lab animals in his research. After adopting his dog Gus, whom he found in a pound, and after becoming a Buddhist, Movsesian had a hard time continuing the practice.
Cultured cells, recombinant proteins and human tissues have since replaced the mammals that he once sacrificed for his experiments, but Movsesian readily conceded that there are questions that can only be answered using animal models.
"It?s a choice I made for myself," said Movsesian, who was reluctant to comment about the issue to risk sounding preachy and pretentious.
"It might be a hypocrisy on my part," he explained, referring to the contradiction between his own restraint to kill and his reliance on data that results from the animal experiments of other researchers.
Nevertheless, it is a subject he feels strongly about, partly because of his philosophical beliefs in Buddhism.
Fourteen years ago, a colleague introduced Buddhism to Movsesian, now a professor in the department of internal medicine.
The rational moral code and insight into the cause of suffering attracted Movsesian, and he gradually became a practitioner.
"We feel we?re unhappy when we don?t get what we want," Movsesian recalled a passage he read that has since resonated within him. "The deeper level is the problem of wanting things."
Raised as a Presbyterian, Movsesian had problems accepting all of the church?s teachings literally.
"Christianity depends on the belief of a virgin birth and resurrection," said Movsesian. "Without those beliefs, it doesn?t seem to me to work."
Similarly, he doesn?t accept all aspects of Buddhism either. The molecular biologist doesn?t care for the ceremonial elements of the religion, but its pluralistic and tolerant nature allows individual interpretation, which is another feature that attracted him.
Movsesian is mainly interested in Buddhism?s philosophical teachings and therefore has chosen the Theravada school, which he believes to adhere more closely to the original teachings of the Buddha. However, he has trouble with certain aspects of it.
"I don?t know if I understand karma completely," said Movsesian, who also disregards any consideration of rebirths.
"The subject of karma is very complex. One of the tenets is there is the absence of any independent self. It is hard to understand how there could be karmic rebirths if there is no self to accumulate karma. What can be reborn?"
But complete understanding may not be necessary, according to Movsesian. He employed a frequently-used vehicle metaphor.
"It?s like a raft you use to get to shore," he explained. "Once you get to shore, the raft is unimportant. It?s a way to be liberated."
Far from being a master, Movsesian admitted, "I?m still very dependent on the raft."
Although Buddhism has tempered some of his desires, he confessed that his equanimity is beset by the temptations of buying more guitars, meeting women and thoughts of falling stock prices. Once a rabid sports fan, his allegiances sometimes get the best of him.
"I?m still disappointed when the Giants don?t make it to the series," Movsesian said half jokingly.
Humbled by his own shortcomings, he is very conscious about the image of his faith in what people perceive as new-age ideas and avoids talking about it.
"I?m very reticent [about my beliefs]," said the New York City native who grew up in Queens. "People think that you?re better than you really are. I don?t think of myself as a great spiritual guy, and I don?t want people to think of me that way."
Likewise, Movsesian is irked by the type of people who are attracted by the mystical qualities of Buddhism, but don?t really understand the teachings of Buddha.
"They believe that if they meditate," Movsesian observed, "they would do everything in their lives more effectively, like making more money and meeting more attractive mates."
Nevertheless, he would encourage others to try Buddhism. Even though he hasn?t reached Nirvana?where one eliminates desire completely?Movsesian is content with what Buddhism has done for him.
"I?d be happy just to achieve a reduction in [desire]," Movsesian said. "I wouldn?t consider that a failure."
Taking the Vow of the Bodhisattva
Arlene Samen, a nurse practitioner at the University Hospital, is a follower of Tibetan Buddhism?a branch of the religion that is filled with rituals and deities.
Samen?s research projects, such as a study on cultural and spiritual beliefs in Tibetan women, have led her to the region several times in the past few years.
Buddhism?s emphasis on cause and effect has helped Samen find inner peace and happiness. It has helped her cope with her anger in poignant events ranging from the recent terrorist attacks to the end of her marriage to an unfaithful husband.
Instead of concentrating on how angry she felt, Samen tried to trace back and find the cause of her husband?s actions.
"You look at the circumstances?how that particular person was raised?and learn not to hate that person and [be] glad that person came into your life,? Samen said.
"[Christianity] doesn't go as deep as Buddhism on what to do with your anger," she explained. "It transforms your thoughts. There are proven methods [in Buddhism] to change your mind."
Like Movsesian, Samen was raised as a Presbyterian. The climate of the ?60s and a liberal mother allowed Samen to experiment with Eastern philosophy as early as 12 years old.
However, Samen?s adoption of Buddhism was gradual, and she didn?t become a practitioner until after meeting "a great master" of Tibetan Buddhism in ?96.
At that point, she took the vow of the Bodhisattva's Way of Life: ?May I be the doctor and the medicine and may I be the nurse
For all sick beings in the world until everyone is healed.
May a rain of food and drink descend to clear away the pain of thirst and hunger.
And during the eon of famine may I myself change into food and drink.
May I become an inexhaustible treasure for those who are poor and destitute;
May I turn into all things they could need and may these be placed close beside them.?
Even after all these years, Samen still has a hard time grasping some of the more difficult concepts of Buddhism.
"They don?t believe that emptiness and form are different," Samen said. "It?s a very difficult concept for even me to grasp."
An Ordained Lama
Growing up with his aunt and mother in Brooklyn, N.Y., Jerry Gardner was exposed to a variety of religions early in his life. By junior high school, Gardner was familiar with the Catholic, Presbyterian, Pentecostal and Baptist churches.
"My aunt was very religious," Gardner said. "She was a sampler."
Studying martial arts, Gardner learned about Buddhism at the age of 12. After learning about the various schools within Buddhism and other religions, Gardner gravitated toward Tibetan Buddhism because it made the most sense to him and suited his lifestyle.
"I wasn?t looking to be a monk or live in a monastery," said Gardner, who is an assistant professor in the theatre department. "I had to work. Other schools required the monastic life."
Gardner has been studying Buddhism formally for 30 years and is an ordained lama?a teacher in the Tibetan school. He translates his title, Lama Thupten Dorje, as "one who aspires to uphold the highest teachings of the Buddha."
Although being a lama entitles him to teach others, Gardner has not reached enlightenment himself.
According to Gardner, reaching Nirvana allows one to become Buddha, or "a physical manifestation of the Buddha compassion." His goals are to reach Nirvana someday and help others attain it.
"I want to be a Buddha,? Gardner said. "Our aspiration to be fully enlightened is not just for our [own] benefit, but [for] the benefit of others."
"All sentient beings have the potential to realize their compassion," Gardner continued, "but only Buddhas realize this quality and act from it."
Gardner believes that ignorance, desire and anger are interlinked and cyclical?giving rise to other vices such as jealousy, greed, lust and stupidity.
He also thinks that our perceptions often fool us and that we need to learn to "not see everything as permanent but transitory."
"It makes life that much more precious," he said. "It is fragile. You need to enjoy it while you can, because it?s not permanent."
"I strive to integrate [Buddhist teachings] into my life everyday," said the devout follower, teacher and lifelong student. "I?m still a quite ignorant, stupid human. Most of what I do is born out of ignorance. I must make an attempt to have a higher view of the truth of a given situation. More often than not, I fall short."
The Daily Utah Chronicle welcomes on-topic, productive comments that add to conversations surrounding the subject matter of our work. Informed opinion on and constructive criticism of our work is also welcome. Personal attacks and remarks (including on Chronicle staff and other commenters), obscenity and vulgarity, abuse, and advertisements are not welcome in our comment section. All comments are moderated and can take up to 24 hours to be approved.
All The Daily Utah Chronicle Picks Reader Picks Sort: Newest


Jane's Walk is a fledgling yearly festival following in Jacobs' esteemed footsteps. Participants in cities around the world like Winnipeg take people on walking tours of their neighborhoods, illuminating their local urbanism.
"Volunteer tour guide Len Kaminski explained to 20 people taking part in Jane's Walk through the Seven Oaks neighbourhood Sunday how Chief Peguis granted settlers a strip of land along the Red River "as far as you can see under the belly of a horse" and what they did with it.
A dozen Jane's Walk tours took place in Winnipeg and 16 other North America cities this weekend. The series of free, guided neighbourhood walks aims to put people in touch with their city by bridging social and geographic gaps. In Winnipeg, more than 500 people were expected to take part.
The walks honour urban activist and writer Jane Jacobs, who championed the interests of local residents and pedestrians over a car-centered approach to planning.
Almost 50 people met to walk some of the city's oldest streets in Point Douglas. The tour of Winnipeg's "first neighbourhood" began at Ross House Museum on Meade Street, and took an eclectic crowd from the site of Vulcan Iron Works (where the 1919 strike began), to the Syndicate Street house of Sir William Stephenson (1897-1989, a much-honoured intelligence operative during the Second World War who legend has it was the real-life model for James Bond)."


I took these photos this morning at the Cambodian/Thailand border crossing in Poipet. Thousands of Cambodians are leaving Thailand because of the military coup there. They're coming over by the truck load.


text:
package lv.ctco.cukes.core.internal.helpers;

import java.io.*;
import java.nio.charset.Charset;
import java.util.ArrayList;
import java.util.List;

public class IO {

    public static void closeQuietly(InputStream closeable) {
        try {
            if (closeable != null) {
                closeable.close();
            }
        } catch (IOException ignored) {
        }
    }

    public static List<String> readLines(InputStream inputStream, Charset encoding) throws IOException {
        InputStreamReader input = new InputStreamReader(inputStream, encoding == null ? Charset.defaultCharset() : encoding);
        BufferedReader reader = toBufferedReader(input);
        List<String> list = new ArrayList<>();

        for (String line = reader.readLine(); line != null; line = reader.readLine()) {
            list.add(line);
        }

        return list;
    }

    public static BufferedReader toBufferedReader(Reader reader) {
        return reader instanceof BufferedReader ? (BufferedReader) reader : new BufferedReader(reader);
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Product teams are reviewing the requirements against the specifications and the implementation to ensure we've got every square inch of the OS validatable.
Development teams focusing on bug fixing and performance, including operation SLIM FAST.
Dogfooding devices are in, porting in progress.
Mozilla Reps: Everything you wanted to know but never dared to ask. Mozilla Reps Brownbag this Thursday 2012-10-11 13:30 PST in MV.
The team is doing an outstanding job of fixing and refactoring our automation suite. A huge shout our and thank you!
In discussions to move the project to continuous deployment.


It's been a rough few days around my house and I think Top Ten Tuesday is just what the doctor ordered! The seasonal topics always generate my favorite lists. I'm excited to share the Books on My Fall TBR List and I'm excited to see your selections. If you want to join in (you do—it's fun!), simply click on over to The Broke and the Bookish, check out the rules of the game, create your own TTT post, then click around the book blogosphere to discover fabulous new blogs and get great reading recommendations.
1. The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware—I'm almost done with this psychological thriller, which is messing with my head in the best possible way. Like In a Dark, Dark Wood, Ware's debut, this one features a woman in an isolated locale who's trying to figure out what really happened one fateful night. It's twistier and altogether more intriguing than Ware's first novel.
2. Danger Close by Amber Smith—I just received this one in the mail from the good folks over at Atria Books. It's a memoir by a combat helicopter pilot who just happens to hail from my teensy tiny hometown. I can't wait to read all about her adventures.
3. Blackbird Fly by Erin Entrada Kelly—I always like immigrant stories and because I lived in the Philippines for a year, the premise of this one really speaks to me.
4. Murder is Bad Manners by Robin Stevens—This middle grade novel about two friends who form a detective agency to investigate the death of a teacher at their boarding school sounds fun. I wonder how it will compare to The Scandalous Sisterhood of Pickwillow Place by Julie Berry?
5. Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead—I've never read anything by this award-winning author and her newest, a YA novel about friendship, sounds like an excellent place to start.
6. The Hired Girl by Laura Amy Schlitz—I've been wanting to read this middle grade historical about a Pennsylvania farm girl who takes a job in Baltimore in order to make a better life for herself for a while now.
7. Factory Girl by Josanne LaValley—This YA novel has a similar premise to that of #6. A 16-year-old girl from northern China who's forced to leave her home to work in a far-away factory learns how to survive—and thrive—in a foreign situation.
8. Beautiful Affliction by Lene Fogelberg—The author of this memoir sent me this book about her journey to find answers about a mysterious medical condition from which she was suffering. When she discovers what is happening, she's faced with an even bigger question: How much time does she have left? Sounds intriguing, no?
9. The Last September by Nina de Gramont—This murder mystery and family drama set on Cape Cod sounds compelling.
10. The First Time She Drowned by Kerry Kletter—An 18-year-old woman struggles to decide if she really wants a relationship with her mother, who forced her into a mental institution several years earlier. Sounds interesting.
So, there you have it ... ten books I'm looking forward to reading sometime soon. What's on your list? Have you read any of the books on mine? What did you think? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment on this post and I will happily return the favor.
I want to check out The First Time She Drowned too. One of my fav Booktubers talked about it.
It sounds so compelling, doesn't it?
Right? It's the title that made me interested, but the premise sounds intriguing as well. If you like psychological thrillers, you'll probably enjoy THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10. It's definitely rated R, but it's an engrossing read.
I enjoyed The Hired Girl, and Murder is Bad Manners looks very cute; it's on my TBR list, too. I haven't read any of the others, but they all look good. Happy Reading!
Oh, good, I'm glad THE HIRED GIRL is enjoyable. I like those kinds of stories, so I'm looking forward to reading it.
Goodness! I haven't heard of any of these books or these authors. Murder is Bad Manners sounds like a lot of fun though.
It does, doesn't it? Thanks for stopping by, Trisha!
You're first and last books both look great. #9. Looks good too.
I just finished #1. It was a good psychological thriller - definitely messed with my head! The author loves the F-bomb, but besides that, it was really good.
I agree. It will be an interesting read.
I just finished THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 last night. It's a good mind-bender!
I have The Woman in Cabin 10 on hold at the library. I am excited for it. The First Time She Drowned looks interesting. Great list!
The hold list at my library was too long, so I decided to buy the book for myself! It was really good.
Agreed! I really enjoyed it.
Ha ha -- I'm constantly behind on reviews. I'll catch up ... someday!
I'm in line for the audio of The Woman in Cabin 10 and I can't wait! I loved In a Dark Dark Wood. I need to check out The Last September and The Hired Girl as well. Great list!
I liked IN A DARK DARK WOOD, but I enjoyed THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 better. The latter is more complex, with more likable characters, and a twistier plot. I'll be interested to see what Ware does next!
The Woman in Cabin 10 had definitely been on my radar and is fighting its way up my TBR. Glad to hear that you are enjoying it! Good luck with your Fall TBR!
I didn't super love the ending, but I did really like THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10. It definitely kept me guessing!
I saw The Woman in Cabin 10 at the bookstore over the summer and it looked intriguing. It had a full floor-length display but I'd never heard of that author! I enjoyed Goodbye Stranger very much, so well done, but then I've really become a big fan of Rebecca Stead the last few years! She writes brilliant MG.
Yeah, THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 is the hit book of the moment. It's good -- definitely rated R, though (just to warn you). I haven't read anything by Stead, so I'm excited for GOODBYE STRANGER.
The list at my library was too long. I didn't want to wait, so I went ahead and bought it.
I'm interested in the Woman in Cabin 10. Can't wait to read your thoughts. I've read The Hired Girl and The Factory Girl and enjoyed them both.


Some sections of this site may require entry registration. This means you will be given a user ID and password to be used on request. Both the user name and password are personal to you and you agree to keep them strictly confidential and not to reveal them to any third party. You accept sole responsibility should any other person use your user name and password and you further agree to indemnify Ashburton Guardian Ltd (hereafter referred to as AGL) against any and all claims arising out of your failure to maintain confidentiality of your user name or password. Restrictions on Access. If you agree and accept that AGL may restrict your site access or prohibit access altogether: for security or technical or any other reasons at any time in AGL's sole discretion and without prior notice. We agree to notify you as soon as reasonably possible of any such restriction.
You agree and accept that: (a) AGL can provide no advice, endorsement or opinion of any kind on the value or suitability of any transaction or course of action you embark on as a result of your use of this website; (b) Simply because information is available on the site does not constitute a recommendation by AGL to enter into any transaction or follow any course of action; (c) Any such decision made by you is to be based solely on your own assessment of the accuracy, currency or reliability of any information on the site and you acknowledge that AGL strongly recommends you make such a personal judgment and obtain any relevant independent professional advice before relying on the information or making any transaction.
Provided we obtain your prior agreement before a site visit, AGL reserves the right to charge you an access fee for certain sections of content. All such charges will be displayed as GST inclusive. Where such a fee may grant you access to general site content for a period longer than 24 hours, this fee is deemed to be a subscription and unless you specify otherwise at the time of purchase, this subscription will be automatically renewed at the expiry of each subscription period. Refunds will only be paid strictly at the discretion of AGL management.
AGL, its information contributors and associated service providers give no warranty whatsoever, express or implied, including without limitation as to availability, correctness, completeness, timeliness or reliability of any information or services available on the site and the above parties expressly disclaim (to the maximum extent permitted in law) all liability for any damage or loss arising from your use of or reliance on the site or site information. All site services and information are on an "as is" basis. In particular, AGL can and does make no warranty whatsoever that this site is free of viruses or of any kind of unauthorised or malicious programme or code at any or all times.
You agree that all access to site links and linked sites in the content of this site is at your own risk without any endorsement whatsoever from AGL and without any implied responsibility by AGL for any linked material. You further agree to indemnify AGL fully and without reservation against any liability arising from your access to any linked material herein.
1. AGL licenses the use of photographic prints purchased from this site (the Photograph) to you on the following terms and conditions. Please read these carefully because they will apply as soon as you have purchased or used the Photograph.
3. Except for the Permitted Purpose, you obtain no other rights in the Photograph, including the rights to reproduce, modify, sub-license, sell, display or distribute the Photograph. You will immediately discontinue all use of the Photograph on notification from AGL.
4. Ownership: You acknowledge that the intellectual property rights in the Photograph belong to AGL or its licensors and you will not dispute such ownership.
5. Warranty and Limitation of Liability: the Photograph is provided to you on an "as is" basis. To the maximum extent permitted by law, all representations, conditions and warranties (whether express or implied, statutory or otherwise), including warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose, are expressly excluded. AGL will not be liable for any loss or damage however caused (including direct, indirect, consequential, special or loss of profits). If AGL becomes liable to you for any loss or damage, AGL's liability to you arising out of all claims for damages under this Agreement will not exceed in aggregate an amount equal to the purchase price actually paid by you for the Photograph: if you did not specifically pay for the Photograph, that aggregate is zero.
6. Indemnity: You will defend (subject to our discretion if we so choose) and indemnify AGL against all costs, expenses and damages incurred in connection with any breach of this Terms and Policy agreement.
AGL reserves the absolute right in its sole discretion to alter, amend, vary, substitute or add to these Terms and Conditions at any time. Your continued site use after any such alteration, amendment, variation, substitution or addition has been posted on the site or after you have been informed of same in any alternative way constitutes your agreement to the modified Terms and Conditions.
Please watch your language: At AGL we strongly believe in Freedom of Expression but we draw the line at inappropriate language, unnecessarily hurtful or defamatory statements, or personal comments which attack the person rather than their actions or opinions. We accordingly reserve the right (but without obligation or explanation) to edit or delete entirely your contributions. Repeated breaches of our Terms and Conditions may result in your being suspended temporarily or banned permanently.
Contributions unedited: Please realise contributions from users are largely unedited and you may well view them before our webmaster does. As a result, we can in no way endorse any contribution or be held responsible for inaccuracies – even if its author may claim to be an "expert". As a result, each individual must take sole personal responsibility both as a contributor and as a viewer.
Your `Good Taste' warranty: Your contributions to this site are strictly conditional on your agreement not to post any comments or material which is or could be deemed to be defamatory, abusive, threatening, obscene or sexual.
to bring your concerns to our attention. We are not obliged to do so but if we share those concerns we may remove the material. In that context we may liaise with the appropriate authorities, and/or Police, and/or seek legal advice as we see fit. This may include postings under user names which themselves may be objectionable or inappropriate. Offensive or inappropriate user names, or those posting offensive or inappropriate material, may be banned permanently at our sole discretion.
Other No-Nos: In contributing to our site, you agree without qualification NOT to: Solicit others. You cannot contribute for the purposes of advertising or to persuade anyone to buy or sell products or services, or to ask for donations of any kind or to promote other websites, without our prior written approval unless expressly permitted. This ban includes, but is not limited to, junk mail, spam, chain letters, pyramid schemes, or any other form of solicitation.
Your contributions and our rights: Posting your content and your thoughts on www.guardianonline.co.nz automatically gives AGL and www.guardianonline.co.nz a royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable, worldwide, non-exclusive right and licence to use, reproduce, modify, adapt, publish, translate, create derivative works from, distribute, disseminate, perform, transmit and display such content (in whole or part) and/or to incorporate it in other works in any form, media, or technology now known or later developed for the full term of any rights that may exist in such content. If you are not the owner of such content, you shall be deemed to have warranted to AGL that the owner of the content has expressly granted to you a similar licence. We retain the right to revoke without notice the access privileges of anyone we believe has violated any of these Terms and Conditions for any reason whatsoever and without any requirement to inform a user of those reasons.
Breach of the User Content Agreement: For the avoidance of doubt, in the event that you breach any aspect of this User Contract Policy Agreement that will comprise a breach of the Terms and Conditions of Use. We will then have the rights and remedies that arise under the Terms and Conditions of Use.


text:
Reflections on Life & Liberty
Texas Directory
Sen. Bob Hall
(Jan 8, 2019 - Jan 10, 2023)
Texas Senate 2 - Edgewood
First elected 2014
Facebook: SenatorBobHall
Twitter: @SenBobHall
About Sen. Bob Hall
Senator Bob Hall graduated from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina with a degree in Electrical Engineering and received a Regular Commission as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Air Force. While a cadet at the Citadel he received numerous awards for leadership. He was the only Air Force Cadet selected to be a Battalion Commander and was awarded the coveted Wade Hampton saber as the graduating cadet who had contributed the most to the Citadel during the four years he was a cadet, and was listed in "Who's Who In American Colleges" his Senior year. Upon graduation, Bob began his active duty as a Systems Engineer working to develop the Minuteman Missile System during the Cold War at Norton AFB in California, where he achieved the rank of Captain.
87th Legislative Session
Administration, Chair
Constitutional Issues, Special
State Affairs
Veteran Affairs and Border Security, Vice Chair
Capitol Station
17585 State Highway 19, Suite 200
Canton, Texas 75103
Alliance Building #2
6537 Horizon Road, Suite B-1
Rockwall, Texas 75032
2816 Lee Street, Suite A
Read the full profile on ballotpedia.org
Civic Group Ratings (Most Recent)
Texans for Fiscal Responsibility
Texans for Fiscal Responsibility is "an independent educational non-profit organization seeking to illuminate the actions of government, educate and equip citizens to effectively advocate for pro-taxpayer reforms, and hold lawmakers accountable for their actions. Taxpayers should demand their interests, not those of elected officials, lobbyists, or bureaucrats, must come first in the Lone Star State."
Young Conservatives of Texas
Young Conservatives of Texas is a non-partisan youth organization that "has been fighting for conservative values for more than 40 years in the Lone Star State and publishes the most respected ratings of the Texas Legislature."
Texas Right to Life
Texas Right to Life describes itself as an organization that "legally, peacefully and prayerfully protects the God-given Right to Life of innocent human beings from fertilization to natural death."
Equality Texas
Equality Texas describes itself as "a statewide political advocacy organization in Texas that advocates for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender rights, including same-sex marriage."
Environment Texas
An advocacy group that exists to "put the environment first." As part of the left-leaning Public Interest Network, Environment Texas promotes adoption of policies favoring solar and wind power, electric cars and buses, and more walkable and "bikeable" cities.
Copyright 2022, All rights reserved. Developed for Texas Scorecard by JPM Strategies


The Scandinavian Peninsula is the largest peninsula in Europe and it extends from above the˙Arctic Circle to the North and Baltic Seas. Scandinavia is a historical and geographical region covering much of Northern Europe.
Denmark consists of the Jutland peninsula and over 400 islands. It is voted one of the happiest nations on earth with some of the best quality of life. Along winding cobbled streets Danes shop and dine at some of the most exciting places in Europe.
Beyond the capital and the bigger cities, Denmark offers a mix of lively towns such as Elsinore, Źrhus and Odense plus rural countryside, medieval churches, Renaissance castles and tidy 18th-century villages.
Norway is, by any standards, one of the most beautiful countries in the World. Its natural beauty and deep fiords attracts people from all over the World. Norwegians themselves have an enduring love for the natural world that is profoundly etched into the national character. Nature is close and spectacular. Enjoy the experience of aurora borealis, the northern light, and the midnight sun in the summer.
The cities of Bergen, Oslo, Stavanger and Troms› are rare beauties of Scandinavia. Take a train ride from Oslo to Bergen and enjoy the great scenery. Walk around Oslo and enjoy the cozy city and its cultural blooming with the new Opera flanking the harbor area.
Sweden offers numerous lakes and is the largest of the Scandinavian countries - both in land size and population.
Volvo, Saab, Ikea, H&M, Absolut Vodka and Abba all originated here. Swedish citizens are independently minded and highly regard their people-oriented social programs, especially in women's rights.
While tradition reigns in places like Dalarna in the Swedish heartland and the Sami territory up North, much of Sweden today buzzes with a more contemporary energy. Urban centers like Stockholm, G"teborg (otherwise known as Gothenburg) and Malm" consistently churn out cultural artifacts for an international audience.
Iceland is rated among the 20 best destinations by Traveler Magazine. Iceland is literally a country in the making, a vast volcanic laboratory where mighty forces shape the land and shrink you to an awestruck speck. The country?s natural features eruptions of lava; gushing geysers such as Geysir in The Golden Circle, hot springs; tearing fissures and slow, grinding glaciers are so cinematic that at times they seem unreal. Bathe in turquoise pools, stand behind a toppling cascade or walk across a glaring-white icecap to experience the full weirdness of Icelandic nature.
Although socially and economically it is in the vanguard of nations, parts of the country remain gloriously remote; with the trendsetting modern capital of Helsinki counterbalanced by vast forested wildernesses in the North and East.
Finnish towns, too, have much to offer. Whether cosy wooden churches, avant-garde design, quirky museums or passionate Finnish rock music are your thing, you'll find them in abundance, as well as caf's warm with the smell of baking cinnamon, and boisterous nightlife particularly in chic, cultural Helsinki.
Winter, too, has a special charm here, with all types of skiing.
Charter a team of husky dogs or a snowmobile and head out on a trek across the snowy wastes, lit by a beautiful, pale, winter sun?


We visited NASA to see the enormous gun its scientists use to create and study impacts.
Scientists & engineers launched "InSight" from Earth (a moving platform) across 300million miles to arrive where Mars (a moving target) will be seven months later, landing safely to do geophysics at the Martian equator. And you have a problem listening to us about climate change?


text:
From Mozart to Britten, the requiem will live forever
Composers have always been drawn to honour the dead with powerful, passionate music
Wed, Nov 14, 2018, 05:00
David Brophy: conducted a moving performance of Britten's War Requiem at the National Concert Hall to commemorate Armistice Day
The musical commemoration of the dead goes back not centuries but millennia; though, of course, we have no way of knowing what most of this early music actually sounded like. Individual requiem mass settings by great names emerged in the 15th century, and the kind of choral and orchestral settings that we are so familiar with today began in the 18th century.
The Requiem that Mozart left incomplete at his death in 1791 is the earliest work of its kind to hold its place in the standard repertoire. Cherubini, who conducted the first Parisian performance of Mozart's Requiem in 1804, went on to write striking requiems of his own in 1817 and 1838, the first with mixed chorus, the second with only male voices, and neither involving vocal soloists.
But the most extraordinary of 18th-century requiems is the one written in 1760 by François-Joseph Gossec, which anticipates the kind of theatricality that was most famously exploited in the 1837 Grande Messe des morts by Berlioz, with its offstage bands and gloriously imaginative orchestration.
There are requiems for individuals. Dmitri Kabalevsky's Third Symphony of 1933 carries the subtitle Requiem for Lenin, and Hanns Eisler also wrote a Lenin Requiem in 1937.
German composer Bernd Alois Zimmermann completed his Requiem for a Young Poet in 1969, the year before he committed suicide. The setting features a wide range of texts relayed over loudspeakers (speeches by Hitler and Stalin feature in the collage as well as words by Joyce, Pound, Camus and Wittgenstein), vocal soloists, choirs, jazz ensemble, orchestra and electronics.
Dark days
Krzysztof Penderecki's Polish Requiem, written between 1980 and 2005, grew out of a Lacrimosa dedicated to the founder of the Solidarity trade union, Lech Walesa. The Lacrimosa was written for the occasion on which Walesa unveiled a statue commemorating workers killed in anti-government riots, and the associations of the rest of the larger work are also with dark days of Polish history.
Ukrainian composer Valentin Silvestrov wrote his Requiem for Larissa between 1997 and 1999, in the years of devastation he experienced after the death of his wife.
After the death of his mother, Russian composer Alfred Schnittke wrote a requiem within his incidental music for a production of Schiller's Don Carlos in 1975. Given the difficulties that would have surrounded a publicly-declared sacred work, it was, he says, "celebrated invisibly in the background of the events on stage".
There is a Requiem of Reconciliation, written to mark the 50th anniversary of the end of the second World War. It is in 14 sections, each written by a composer from a country that was involved in the war – Luciano Berio, Friedrich Cerha, Paul-Heinz Dittrich, Marek Kopelent, John Harbison, Arne Nordheim, Bernard Rands, Marc-André Dalbavie, Judith Weir, Krzysztof Penderecki, Wolfgang Rihm, Alfred Schnittke, Joji Yuasa and György Kurtág.
The first World War generated one of the biggest musical gatherings through the 90-minute World Requiem, which English composer John Foulds wrote between 1918 and 1921. Foulds's wife, Irishwoman Maud MacCarthy, compiled the text for the work.
MacCarthy was a violinist whose international career – she appeared as a soloist with the Boston and Chicago symphony orchestras – was terminated by bursitis. She travelled with activist and social reformer Annie Besant to India where she studied music and mysticism. She published poetry under the name Tandra Devi and also took the name Swami Omananda Puri, under which she published her autobiography.
Foulds's World Requiem, billed as "A Cenotaph in Sound", was premiered in London's Royal Albert Hall on Armistice Night in 1923 by a mass of performers said to have amounted to 1,250, and was heard there again annually at the Festival of Remembrance until 1926. It lay neglected for eight decades until a concert performance in 2007, which was recorded and later issued on CD by Chandos.
Britten's work had a level of immediate success well beyond any of the works I've mentioned
Last month the BBC gave the first complete performance of Dubliner Charles Villiers Stanford's response to the first World War, his Missa Via Victrix, completed in 1919, of which only the Gloria had previously been performed, in Cambridge in 1920.
The second World War yielded Bohuslav Martinu's Memorial to Lidice for orchestra (prompted by Nazi atrocities in a Czech village in 1942) and Schoenberg's blistering A Survivor from Warsaw, for narrator, chorus and orchestra.
The best-known large-scale work born of the ravages of the second World War is Britten's War Requiem, written for the consecration of Coventry Cathedral in 1962 – the new cathedral did not rise until 20 years after the war-time destruction of the original, medieval building. Britten's work had a level of immediate success well beyond any of the works I've mentioned. The first recording, a double-LP album with the composer conducting, sold 200,000 copies within six months of its release.
Its power and moving intimacy were well caught in last Friday's NCH performance by the Choristers of St Patrick's Cathedral, the RTÉ Philharmonic Choir, the RTÉ NSO and RTÉCO under David Brophy at the National Concert Hall.
Brophy gave the music a rather stiff and tightly-marshalled start. But once he relaxed, the musical and emotional communication surged. This was the finest music-making I have yet heard from him.
The three fine Irish soloists – soprano Ailish Tynan, tenor Robin Tritschler and baritone Gavan Ring – were on the top of their form. The boys of St Patrick's Cathedral were at their celestial-sounding best. The RTÉ Philharmonic Choir tackled the choral writing with a firmness no other large choir in the capital can currently rival.
The composer was a lifelong pacifist, and his compassionate anti-war message, blending Latin words with those of Wilfred Owen, had exactly the effect he intended. No better time for that message to be heard than in an Armistice Day commemoration.
Bernd Alois Zimmermann
Marc Andre Dalbavie
David Brophy
Judith Weir
Arne Nordheim
Alfred Schnittke
Dmitri Kabalevsky
Friedrich Cerha
Gavan Ring
Luciano Berio
Wolfgang Rihm
Hanns Eisler
John Foulds
Ailish Tynan
John Harbison
Charles Villiers
Valentin Silvestrov
Francois Joseph Gossec
Robin Tritschler
Gyorgy Kurtag
Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin: a man of energy, joie de vivre, vision and charisma
New artist of the week: Tank and the Bangas
Three classical music concerts to see this week
'I was working with young gypsy girls – you'd think they'd be more interested in Lady Gaga'
Rapper Mac Miller died of drugs and alcohol overdose
Ensemble éiru make rare outing at NCH: the must-see jazz gigs this week
Manus McGuire: The Copperplate Sessions review – a fiddler with a golden touch
The Beatles: White Album review – Fab? No, definitely not fab
This Album Changed My Life: The Cure – Disintegration (1989)
Imagine Dragons: Origins review – A lacklustre mess. It will sell millions
6 Brendan Grace: The best bits from a life in comedy